This course prepares students to use Spanish in real life situations by emphasizing oral communication and developing other basic language skills. Expansion of vocabulary is presented in culturally authentic context beyond the basic survival skills, setting the stage for extended discourse and debates. Only Spanish will be spoken in the classroom.

GRADING POLICY

Grades are based on accumulation of the following points:

Tests and quizzes: There will be 5 exams following the end of each chapter. While studying each chapter they will take vocabulary or grammar short quizzes. Written tests are also given on specific literary works.

Reading and writing: Students will read works by Spanish authors and will answer comprehension questions in writing. Written exercises are also assigned as grammar and vocabulary reinforcement.

Oral grade: listening comprehension and speaking: Students are provided with opportunities to speak and listen daily in class through questions, paired conversations, monologues, short presentations, etc. In addition to daily class participation points, formal and informal assessment of speaking skills are issued on an ongoing basis.

ATTENDANCE

Attendance is important in a practice course and class time is probably the only chance students have to practice the language. Absent students are encouraged to utilize this website for any work they may have missed.

HELP

In the fourth and fifth level most grammar structures are based on previous knowledge. Students are encouraged to stop by my classroom if they need help with anything they do not comprehend. My planning period is 4th hour and I am available before and after school every day.